A papilloma is a benign tumor that grows outward from an epithelial surface
. It can appear as frond-like tumors that develop in various parts of the body, including the skin, lip, oral cavity, eyelid, tongue, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, cervix, and genital tract
. Most papillomas are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are contagious upon contact
. However, cutaneous papillomas, also known as skin tags, are non-viral in origin and are usually self-limiting in immunocompetent individuals
. While papillomas are not cancerous, they are linked with a higher risk of cancer
. Women who have received treatment for multiple breast papilloma, for example, might be monitored just in case cancer also occurs
. Getting vaccinated against HPV and receiving regular Pap smears can prevent cervical cancer
